News Details

The Canadian government is seeking public feedback on proposed criteria for identifying substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction (CMR) under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). The consultation is being led by Environment and Climate Change Canada and Health Canada and closes on 2 December 2026. Responses will inform the development of proposed regulations. 

Proposed CMR Criteria 

The government is proposing to align the criteria for identifying CMRs with the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). This approach would cover substances categorized as Category 1A and 1B, including those that are known or presumed human carcinogens, substances associated with heritable germ-cell mutations, and known or presumed human reproductive toxicants. 

This initiative supports the strengthened chemicals management framework introduced through the 2023 CEPA amendments. Substances determined to be toxic under CEPA, considered to pose a danger to human health or life in Canada, and meeting the CMR criteria would have to be recommended for Part 1 of Schedule 1. For substances listed in that part, the authorities prioritize total, partial, or conditional prohibitions on relevant activities or environmental releases. 

Broader Chemicals Management Context 

The consultation forms part of Canada’s broader efforts to shape the future of chemicals management. Introduced in 2006, the Chemicals Management Plan brought together federal programs to address approximately 4,300 priority chemicals and assess new substances entering the Canadian market. Continued engagement draws on experience gained through the program and recommendations from the parliamentary review of CEPA. 

Canada’s wider consultation process involves industry, researchers, Indigenous groups, public-interest organizations, and members of the public. Previous consultations have addressed issues such as chemical supply chain transparency, product labelling, vulnerable populations, safer alternatives, and worker protection. More recent topics have included the right to a healthy environment, a Watch List for substances of potential concern, and reducing reliance on vertebrate animal testing. 

Comments and Next Steps 

For the current CMR consultation, stakeholders can comment on the proposed criteria and suggest additional considerations. Written feedback may be emailed to substances@ec.gc.ca by the deadline. The government plans to publish proposed regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part I, by 2027, followed by another public comment period.